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Please see the section on Course Description Symbols and Terms in the University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.

An examination of the role of critical thinking in daily life and scientific pursuits. Both inductive and deductive approaches to solving problems are utilized. Selected topics are investigated with an emphasis upon common logical fallacies in the interpretation of personal observations and empirical data. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course.
(021166)

Introduction to concepts and problems in psychology. Topics include perception, learning, development, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior, and biological and social bases of behavior. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course.
(007881)

This course is designed to give a beginning psychology student instruction and experiential training in the basic factors of constructive human relations. Only 2 units of PSYC 110 can be applied to meet graduation requirements. 3 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 2.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(007883)

Examination of social and cultural influences on emotional, social, and intellectual development. Specific emphasis on children raised in lower socio-economic environments as well as children of American Indian, Mexican-American, and black cultures. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course.
(007889)

The three major topics of this course are health, well being, and resilience, Students explore the relationship between physical and mental well being. The interrelationship between the well being of individuals and the well being of communities are examined. Plans for improving one's own health at different moments in the life course are made. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course.
(021167)

This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. Courses may be offered with activity or laboratory components. 3 hours lecture.
(007899)

Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher. Prerequisite or corequisite: PSYC 101.

Aspects of psychological research process and research methods, including measurement and quantitative description of behavior, problem definition and hypothesis formation, major research approaches to psychological phenomena, bibliographic resource use, and professional report writing. 3 hours lecture.
(007898)

An overview of the academic landscape in psychology and career options for psychology majors, with an emphasis on skill development for academic and professional success, including professional writing in psychology. 3 hours lecture.
(021866)

After successful completion of the training program, students will serve as peer advisors for three hours per week. Peer advisors help students complete class schedules and graduation clearance forms for the psychology major and minor. Peer advisors refer students to appropriate faculty or departments as needed. This course is not applicable to the major or the minor. See the department for specific information. 1 hour discussion. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 3.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(007993)

This course examines the social-psychological aspects of the interdependence of humans and their environment. The course emphasizes psychological theory and current research along with a practical focus on environmental issues. 3 hours lecture.
(007971)

This course explores the fundamental relationships between brain function, mental states and consciousness, and human behavior. Attention is given to the influence of brain research on artificial intelligence, neural networks, and computer technology, and to the current metaphor of brain as computer. The course focus is on basic brain processes involved in sensation and perception, motivation and emotion, learning and memory, and language and consciousness. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course.
(007919)

This course provides an introduction to the field of health psychology which is the field within psychology devoted to understanding psychological influences on how people stay healthy, why they become ill, and how they respond when they do get ill. Topics include a study of health psychology as a profession, the bio-psychosocial model of health, health belief models and human behavior, health-compromising and health-enhancing behaviors, cognitive-behavioral approaches to behavior change, stress and coping, personality and health, and psychological issues in heart disease, cancer, AIDS, and other diseases. 3 hours discussion.
(007975)

An introduction to basic processes involved in brain function and an overview of the biological bases of behaviors such as sleep, biological rhythms, sex, emotions, learning and memory, language, laterality, and psychophysiological states such as depression, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia. The laboratory includes the study of neuroanatomy and experiments on topics such as EEG, GSR, biofeedback, hemisphere specialization, and cardiovascular reactivity. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
(007901)

A review of the major theories, phenomena, and research associated with the structure and function of the sensory and perceptual systems. Primary emphasis is on the visual and auditory systems, but gustation, olfaction, and skin perception are also reviewed. 3 hours lecture.
(007985)

This course focuses on the importance and various influences of culture on human behavior. Beginning with an examination of theoretical definitions of culture, the course covers a broad range of research that highlights the contributions of cross-cultural psychology to the understanding of human behavior within and between cultures. In addition, conceptual, methodological, and practical issues in cross-cultural research and applications are covered. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved Global Cultures course.
(005638)

Important issues, theories, and research related to the psychology of women are examined. Common stereotypes, myths, and typical societal expectations are explored in terms of biological, social, psychological, and development determinants. Additionally, the social construction of gender categories, female sexuality, victimization of women, mental health of women, and issues related to education, work, and family are examined. Information in this course should serve as a catalyst for constructive change by revealing deficiencies in psychological research and theories relevant to gender, sexuality, cultural, and ethnic issues. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course.
(007907)

Physical, mental, social, and emotional factors of human growth and development from infancy through adolescence. Supervised experience working with children is strongly encouraged. 3 hours lecture.
(007925)

An examination of quantitative or qualitative research methods via the design and implementation of original research or evaluation studies. These activities develop skills in research design, sampling techniques, instrumentation, data collection, analyses, and interpretation of results. Presentation or manuscript submission is encouraged. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
(020072)

Introduction to the nature and development of personality, with emphasis on the normal adult, including theories of personality, techniques of assessment, and a survey of current research. 3 hours lecture.
(007944)

Examination of the nature of prejudice and hate and their contribution to societal violence. How prejudice and hatred affect personal, family, and group behavior are considered in a context of understanding factors that contribute to their development. Strategies for reducing the prevalence of prejudice, hatred, and violence in our contemporary culture are evaluated. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course.
(007908)

This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. Courses may be offered with activity or laboratory components. 9 hours supervision.
(007921)

This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 99.0 units.
(020428)

This course is an independent study of special problems and is offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(007922)

Open only by invitation to students in the top 5% of the major; Seminar for Honors students. Course will focus on the development of a creative project in psychology, its presentation, discussion of relevant research materials, and the reporting of findings. 9 hours supervision. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for majors. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly PSYC 399H.
(007991)

This is the capstone course in the major. Students integrate different topics and perspectives, previously examined in the core and elective courses. This integration centers on important contemporary issues and problems in the discipline of psychology. After an in-depth examination of the issue, students generate solutions to problems, new lines of research or fusions of perspectives, depending upon the topic under investigation. Multiple sections of PSYC 401 are offered each semester, each focusing on a unique topic. Students in this seminar participate in advanced readings, writing, reporting, discussion, demonstration, oral presentation, and experiential components. 3 hours seminar. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for majors. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly PSYC 401.
(007990)

Applications of principles of the psychology of human learning and development and counseling to educational practice. Prospective teachers analyze their motivations, personal value systems, role conceptualizations, and self-attitudes in relation to demands of the teaching profession. Concepts of emotional, social, and cognitive development as well as of childhood learning and motivation are applied to development of learning experiences for elementary school children. Enrollment is restricted to second-semester juniors, seniors, and graduates. 3 hours seminar.
(007900)

An examination of the principles of learning and the environmental determinants of behavior change, emphasizing fundamental mechanisms such as habituation, sensitization, classical conditioning, and operant conditioning. Includes a laboratory in the methods used to investigate learning processes and to analyze behavior. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
(007905)

This course is an internship offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. This course provides directed experience in agencies, institutions, or work setting appropriate to the application of psychological background and training. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(007988)

This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(007995)

A study of the physiological processes and anatomical regions of the nervous system which underlie the behaviors of sensation/perception, movement, motivation (sleep and dreams; hunger and eating disorders), emotion (pleasure and addiction; fear, stress, and health), cognition (language; learning and memory), and disorders of the human brain (depressive disorders, anxiety disorders; schizophrenia; and Alzheimer's disease). The course also includes study of the current methods used by neuroscientists to study brain and behavior in humans. 3 hours discussion.
(007979)

The study of the mechanisms by which psychotropic drugs and natural plant substances alter human behavior and psychological state. The course emphasizes fundamentals of brain function (neurotransmitter-receptor interactions), principles of pharmacology, drugs of abuse and dependence, clinical pharmacology (the use of medications to treat behavioral, psychological, and psychiatric conditions such as eating disorders, hyperactivity, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease), and the use of drugs to alter cognitive states and improve attention, memory, and learning. 3 hours lecture.
(007974)

An examination of the nature and process of understanding and evaluating, as well as designing and conducting psychological research and evaluations studies. Important issues and criteria for evaluating quality and drawing conclusions will be emphasized. 3 hours seminar.
(007996)

Study of both typical human development and individual differences. Developmental issues and life events from infancy to old age and their effects upon individuals, couples, and family relationships. Emphasis will be on current theory and research related to social, emotional, and language development, and its relationship to practice. Biological and environmental influences are addressed. 3 hours seminar.
(008018)

Detailed study and discussion of a specific area in general psychology. Content will reflect instructor's specialization. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
(008003)

Supervised teaching of lecture or laboratory work in college-level psychology courses. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 1 hour seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
(008015)

Examination of a variety of school counseling interventions and roles, including leadership and supervision. Supervised practice in the following activities: a) counseling groups of children, b) classroom instruction in emotional awareness, social skills, and conflict resolution, c) intervention with children in crisis, and d) leading interdisciplinary or other team meetings. 3 hours clinical.
(008022)

Survey of theory and methods of selecting, administering, and interpreting screening instruments, norm-referenced tests, curriculum-based assessments, and observational systems to identify academic and behavioral concerns and design appropriate instructional interventions. Research-based instructional strategies and effective schools/teachers research serve as the basis for intervention designed to help all students reach academic standards. 3 hours clinical.
(008030)

An overview of theories of intelligence, basic concepts related to psychometrics, and issues related to the use and misuse of psychological tests with various populations of school-age children. Stresses a critical analysis of currently used tests of intelligence, with special consideration of the Wechsler scales and Stanford-Binet. 2 hours clinical.
(008033)

Practice in the selection, administration, scoring and interpretation of individually-administered tests of intelligence and cognition. Includes training in the preparation of written reports. 1 hour clinical.
(008034)

The assessment of the socio-emotional functioning and behavior of the school-aged child. Understanding of various issues related to personality assessment, test construction and design, and childhood psychopathology is emphasized. Critical examination of numerous instruments and procedures currently used in the social and emotional assessment of children. 2 hours clinical.
(008036)

Practice in the selection, administration and interpretation of various tests and procedures used in the socio-emotional assessment of children. Includes training in the preparation of written reports. 1 hour clinical.
(008037)

Provides advanced training in the meaningful interpretation of various forms of assessment and the communication of this information in the form of a written report. Supervision of cases from field-based practice. 9 hours supervision.
(008038)

An examination of psychological assessment procedures commonly used in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). Includes training in the use and interpretation of selected procedures within the scope of MFT practice and familiarization with other tests and instruments used collaboratively in patient/client care by other mental health professionals. Also covered is spousal or partner abuse assessment. 3 hours seminar.
(008039)

Seminar in diagnosis and treatment of childhood and adolescent behavior disorders and emotional disturbance. Topics include specific treatment modalities used with children and parents and various disorders and stressors of developing children. 3 hours seminar.
(008043)

Seminar addressing the evaluation of the various models of psychotherapy as they relate to ethnic minorities and the influence of the mores and values of various ethnic minority populations upon the counseling process. Self-exploration of racial/ethnic perceptions, attitudes, and experiences. Review and evaluation of contemporary examples of cross-cultural research. 3 hours seminar.
(008044)

Stresses skill development in individual counseling in a supervised practicum setting. Instruction and experience includes individual counseling with children and collaborative consultation with schools and family members. May not be repeated more than once without approval of the Psychology Graduate Committee, in consultation with MS subcommittee. 9 hours supervision.
(008046)

Stresses skill development of group leadership in counseling through a supervised practicum setting. May not be repeated more than once without approval of the Psychology Graduate Committee, in consultation with MS subcommittee. 9 hours supervision.
(008047)

This is a beginning family therapy practicum designed for advanced master's level counselor trainees. The course applies both didactic and experiential learning, emphasizing family systems theories and post modern family therapy approaches. 9 hours supervision.
(008048)

An advanced seminar in Marriage and Family Therapy providing a contemporary and integrative study of the field of marriage and family therapy, emphasizing current theory, research, and practice. 3 hours seminar.
(008050)

This course covers the study of conjoint therapy with a focus on sexuality across the life-span and counseling approaches to sexuality issues. Topics include: a history of sexuality, development of sexual identity, sexuality in a social context, relationship issues, assessing couples as an interacting system, conjoint treatment planning, core counseling skills and frameworks in conjoint therapy, psychosexual dysfunction, and sexual abuse. 3 hours seminar.
(021251)

Seminar studying recovery and wellness in the field of mental health with an emphasis on the philosophy and service delivery approaches adopted by California and codified in the Mental Health Services Act. 3 hours seminar.
(021249)

Professional, Ethical, and Legal Issues in Counseling and the Helping Professions

3.0

FA

Prerequisites: Classified status in the MS in Psychology program or faculty permission.

Seminar examining professional ethics and California law for Marriage and Family Therapists and other mental health professionals. Therapeutic, clinical, and practical considerations involved in legal and ethical practice of Marriage and Family Therapy. Topics: scope of practice, ethical and legal issues, current legal patterns and trends in mental health profession, aging and long-term care, psychotherapist/patient privilege, confidentiality, dangerousness, and treatment of minors, with and without parental consent. Relationship between practitioner's sense of self and human values and professional behavior and ethics will be explored. 3 hours seminar.
(008056)

School Psychology: Introduction to the Profession, the Education System, and Prevention

3.0

FA

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

History and development of the profession; current and emergent roles of school psychologists; introduction to areas of professional expertise; preventive service delivery; and education as a social system. 3 hours seminar.
(008057)

Examination of various childhood exceptionalities including specific learning disabilities, mental retardation, behavioral and emotional disorders, low-incidence neurologically-based disorders, and physical and health related handicaps from birth to early adulthood; emphasis on role of school psychologist in identification and intervention; review of special education referral process and service delivery options; overview of classroom modifications, adaptations and inclusionary practices. 3 hours seminar.
(008058)

School Psychology: Legal and Ethical Principles and Preventive Service Delivery

3.0

SP

Prerequisites: PSYC 680, PSYC 681, faculty permission.

Laws and ethical principles relevant to the practice of school psychology and their application to daily practice and professional dilemmas; program development and evaluation; national standards and models in pupil services; collaborative service delivery models. 3 hours seminar.
(008059)

Prerequisites: PSYC 673A and PSYC 673B (with grade of B or higher in each course); PSYC 673B may be taken concurrently with program coordinator permission.

This course is a traineeship offered for 1.0-9.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Supervised counseling traineeship in a campus or community setting for those pursuing MFT licensure. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units.
(008075)

Students learn the research process through active participation in various phases of faculty research, including theoretical development, methodology, data collection, analysis and interpretation, report writing and, when appropriate, conference presentations. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(008090)

Theoretical development and design of an empirical research study to further develop skills and completion of a written research proposal by the student, with faculty assistance and supervision. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 1 hour seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 2.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(008089)

Designed for School Psychology students who have chosen the comprehensive exam as a culminating activity. The exam includes both written and oral components and is offered during the student's last semester of master's study. 9 hours supervision. Credit/no credit grading.
(015916)

This course is a graduate-level independent study offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
(008092)

Faculty supervision of an empirical research study designed by the student. Student responsibilities include data collection, data analysis, and the final submission of a complete, professionally written research report. This course is offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(021384)

This course is offered for 1.0-6.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(008102)

This course is offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading.
(008100)

University Catalog
California State University, Chico
400 West First Street
Chico, CA 95929